Hollis police said they discovered online conversations between Azotea and Pelusi referencing sex with young children, including a child known to Pelusi.

Azotea and Pelusi discussed sexual fantasies about sex with children as young as 5 years old, police said. The pair allegedly discussed eventually living together and being able to act on the fantasies.

Police said the online conversations occurred between Aug. 16 and Aug. 22.

Azotea was arraigned Monday and ordered held on $29,000 cash bail.

Simmons College confirmed that Azotea is a part-time faculty member who has worked there since 2011. In court on Monday, Azotea identified herself as a psychology professor at the college.

"The charges, if true, would be deeply disturbing. Consistent with our policy, this faculty member has been put on paid leave pending the outcome of this matter," a statement from Simmons College read.